4 Foreword by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, T.D. In the 21st Century, scarcity of fossil fuels, the impact of climate change and the need to fundamentally change the way we use the Earth s finite resources will be key drivers of how we evolve as an economy and as a society. Over the last twenty years a new global market has developed for green technologies and products that take account of the environmental impact of economic growth, are more resource-efficient and reduce costs for businesses and consumers. A global Green Economy has emerged, estimated to be worth $5 trillion in 2010 and employing in excess of 30 million people world-wide. As recognised in the Government s Action Plan for Jobs 2012, the Green Economy can be a key driver of economic growth and job creation for Ireland. We already have inherent strengths which we can build upon, including world-class renewable energy resources, our excellence in Research, Development and Innovation, an outstanding natural environment and a cluster of Irish companies that are true world-leaders in green goods and services. This Policy Statement affirms the Government s commitment to further developing the Green Economy in the years ahead, building on progress already made to maximise the significant employment opportunities it presents. The Statement identifies the opportunities in the Green Economy for sustainable economic growth and job creation, sets out how the Government is supporting the Green Economy and outlines new implementation structures to oversee the development of the sector. It also reaffirms the interdependencies between the Green Economy and the Government s Sustainable Development Framework. My Government is committed to strengthening Ireland s role in the global Green Economy, by focusing on sustainable economic growth, continuing to create the conditions for enterprise growth and delivering the specific initiatives outlined in this Policy Statement on Growth and Employment in the Green Economy. We hope that industry and the many other interested and engaged stakeholders will work with us to maximise the opportunities arising for Ireland. Enda Kenny, T.D. Taoiseach Page 1

5 Key Messages The Green Economy is one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing markets in the world and presents a major opportunity for growth, competitiveness and employment creation for Ireland. The Green Economy is one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing markets in the world. In the strictest sense, it is not a discrete sector. Rather, the term captures a range of activities spread across different sectors which have the common objective of providing goods and services in a sustainable way which reduces the impact on the environment. For Ireland, it covers activities as diverse as renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable food production, tourism, Green financial services, and energy-efficient products and services. Research and Development (R&D) also has a key role to play in developing the Green Economy. Key drivers of the growth of the Green Economy globally include emissions reduction targets, increasing fossil fuel prices, diminishing natural resources, the impact of climate change, environmental legislation and consumer preferences. The economic value of the Green Economy on a global scale was estimated to be $5 trillion in 2010, employing in excess of 30 million people worldwide. Furthermore, it is a sector that is growing and is projected to increase to the order of $6 trillion by 2015, an average growth rate of 3.7% per annum. The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) estimated that 18,750 were employed in just six sub-sectors of the Green Economy in Ireland in Many more are employed in the emerging green areas within Tourism, Agriculture and other sectors, where sustainable products or services have become key selling points for Ireland. The Green Economy in Ireland is characterised by a small number of large companies, but also a significant number of smaller, innovative companies, many of whom are already active in overseas markets and have built a strong reputation for their expertise. Page 2

6 The EGFSN estimated that up to 10,000 extra jobs could be created in six key sub-sectors of the Green Economy alone by 2015 if substantive progress was made in addressing key policy challenges impacting on the development of these sectors. The Green Economy presents a major opportunity for growth, competitiveness and employment creation. Ireland has significant strengths and advantages which it can leverage to exploit business opportunities in the Green Economy. Key amongst these are: Abundant renewable energy resources, which raise the prospect of Ireland becoming an exporter of clean energy to the UK and continental Europe in the future. A strong R&D base, which is highly relevant to a number of Green Economy opportunities. Strengths as a location to test and develop new technologies and products for application to larger markets. Excellent natural resources such as clean water, air and land to support sustainable economic development. An outstanding natural environment and rich biodiversity to develop and support Green tourism and related activities. Strengths in key enabling technologies such as engineering, ICT and biotechnology. A number of exemplar companies and organisations with a proven track record and international credibility in the Green Economy. The Government already provides many supports to the various sectors making up the Green Economy, and has published a number of strategies to support the further development of those sectors (e.g. Strategy for Renewable Energy, Sustainable Development Framework, National Energy Efficiency Action Plan, A Resource Opportunity the new national waste policy). This Policy Statement draws on these existing strategies and identifies the economic and employment opportunities that are available for businesses in different sectors that make up the Green Economy. It sets out comprehensively how the Government is supporting the Green Economy in Ireland and affirms the Government s commitment to further developing the area in the years ahead in accordance with the principles of sustainable economic development. Delivering the individual commitments outlined in this Policy Statement requires a whole-of- Government approach to maximise the growth and employment potential of the Green Economy. The Cabinet Committee on Climate Change and the Green Economy, which is chaired by the Taoiseach, will, therefore, oversee the development of the Green Economy in Ireland. In addition, the Government will establish a Consultative Committee on the Green Economy, which will be chaired by the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, to identify emerging opportunities for Ireland in the Green Economy. Opportunities identified by the Consultative Committee will be considered with a view to their inclusion in the Action Plan for Jobs in 2013 and subsequent years. An established international image as a Green Island which can be built upon to promote Ireland s Green offering. The potential exists to develop the domestic market for green goods and services, but also to encourage foreign direct investment and promote exports to a rapidly expanding global market. Page 3

7 The Growth of the Green Economy Driven by the challenges of climate change and scarcity of natural resources, the Green Economy has grown on a global scale and was estimated to be $5 trillion in 2010, employing in excess of 30 million people world-wide. The sector provides significant opportunities for Irish-based companies to export innovative goods and services and for Ireland to attract growing volumes of foreign investment in the Green Economy. The last twenty years has seen the gradual emergence of new technologies and practices that are responding to the challenges of climate change and scarcity of natural resources. Renewable energy, electric vehicles and energy saving devices are just some of the products that have become realities in our daily lives. We are only at the start of the transformation process. As public understanding grows of the need to guard the Earth s natural resources, a global and local demand is emerging for green goods and services. Businesses are also trying to find ways to reduce costs through greater resource efficiency and energy saving measures. This has spawned the emergence of a Green Economy which is one of the fastest-growing markets in the world, employing in excess of 30 million people world-wide. In the strictest sense, the Green Economy is not a discrete sector. Rather, the term captures a range of activities spread across different sectors which have the common objective of providing goods and services in a sustainable way which reduces the impact on the environment 1. The Green Economy includes commercial activity in areas such as renewable energy, energy-efficient products, resource-efficient production techniques, the re-use, recovery and recycling of waste, water management and lowcarbon vehicles. The term cleantech is sometimes used when referring to products and services in the Green Economy. The Green Economy is set to grow steadily in the medium-to-long term, as greater efforts are made to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions, respond to diminishing supplies of fossil fuels and other scarce resources, and adapt to the impact of climate change. 1 The OECD defines green growth as fostering economic growth and development, while ensuring natural assets continue to provide the resources and environmental services on which our well-being relies. To do this, it must catalyse investment and innovation which will underpin sustained growth and give rise to new economic opportunities. Page 4

8 Major world economies, including China and the USA, are investing heavily in green products, services and technologies to transform their economies, opening up new market opportunities for innovative companies worldwide who can deliver to those markets. Multi National Companies and international Funds managers also see the Green Economy as an attractive investment, with the sector set to grow significantly and offering attractive returns on investment in the long-term. Our Strengths Ireland is strongly placed to benefit from the growth of the Green Economy. We have a number of strengths which we can leverage to create employment and growth for both indigenous companies and for foreign investments in Ireland. Our natural assets clean air and water, consistent wind, ocean resources, natural landscape, and rich biodiversity provide a strong platform for the development of the Green Economy that surpasses the potential of many other countries. This natural environment, coupled with our exceptional research base and a number of leading-edge companies, provides us with extensive opportunities for development of the Green Economy in areas as diverse as renewable energy, sustainable food production, tourism, environmental resource management, Green financial services, and resource and energy-efficient products and services. Other strengths which apply across the whole of the economy include our favourable corporate tax rate, a well-educated adaptable workforce, and an established international image as a Green island which can be built upon to promote Ireland s Green offering. Building on our strengths, and supported by a cohesive approach across Government, Ireland can continue to grow its share in international markets for green goods and services. As well as having the potential to be a key contributor to sustainable economic growth, at the heart of the Green Economy is the imperative to achieve greater sustainability in relation to the use of the finite resources at our disposal. The protection of the environment and the development of the Green Economy are integrally connected. Developing the potential of the Green Economy for Ireland, therefore, will be done in a complementary and integrated way to the Government s Framework for Sustainable Development, Our Sustainable Future, which was published in Drivers of the Green Economy There are a number of key drivers in the growth of the Green Economy globally, including emissions reduction targets, increasing fossil fuel prices, scarcity of natural resources, the impact of climate change, environmental legislation and consumer preferences. In a national context, Ireland is committed to achieving a number of EU targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency and renewable energy, increase the re-use, recovery and recycling of waste, and improve water quality and conservation. For a nation that imports 6 billion of fossil fuels each year, there is a particular imperative for us to reduce our dependence on oil, gas and coal imports which leave the economy vulnerable to costly price fluctuations and security of supply. The Secretariat to the National Economic and Social Council (NESC) has published an independent interim analysis to inform the development of national policy on climate change. This work provides an additional impetus for moving towards a greener economy and a cleaner environment. The NESC report highlights the fact that certain climate change actions can help in addressing domestic demand and in supporting employment. Environmental legislation is continuing to raise standards of sustainable production and consumption, while consumer preferences are shifting towards goods and services that are more sustainable and have less impact on the environment. As a result, businesses are seeking improvements in the environmental criteria of goods and services at all levels of the supply chain. Keeping pace with these developments is essential if the Irish economy is to improve its competitiveness and productivity and grow employment. Page 5

9 Developments at EU level The overriding priority of the Europe 2020 Strategy is to achieve smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. Europe 2020 identifies sustainable growth, or green growth, as being central to a resourceefficient future for Europe, creating new green jobs, boosting energy efficiency and assuring energy security. As part of the Europe 2020 Strategy, the Resource Efficiency Flagship aims to support the shift towards a resource-efficient, low-carbon economy by decoupling economic growth from resource and energy use, reducing CO 2 emissions, promoting greater energy security and reducing the resource intensity of what we use and consume. Developments at EU level will not stop in The EU has also set out a challenging longer term vision for transforming Europe into a competitive low carbon economy by 2050, in particular by reducing EU greenhouse gas emissions by 80-95% by that date. The European Commission estimates that to achieve an 80% reduction in emissions in the EU by 2050, investment in clean and energy-efficient technologies needs to be increased by 1.5% (around 270 billion) of the EU s GDP per annum. Value of the Green Economy Based on these drivers, the Green Economy is set to grow strongly on a global basis. The economic value of the Green Economy on a global scale was estimated to be $5 trillion in 2010, employing in excess of 30 million people world-wide 2. It is a sector that is projected to increase to the order of $6 trillion by , an average growth rate of 3.7% per annum. The sector provides significant opportunities for Irish-based companies to export innovative goods and services and also for Ireland to attract growing volumes of foreign investment in the Green Economy, given our strengths and the markets which can easily be served from Ireland. 2 Cleantech Ireland, Ernst & Young, 2012, citing Innovas Solutions and Kmatrix. 3 Forfas 2011, citing Innovas Solutions Page 6

10 The Green Economy in Ireland The Government is committed to developing the potential of the Green Economy for Ireland. We have resources and strengths that surpass those of many other countries. We will use them wisely to enable the Green Economy to develop in Ireland, with consequent gains for sustainable economic growth, exports and job creation. The Green Economy is already vibrant in Ireland and the opportunity for its further development is significant, as highlighted in the 2009 Report of the High Level Group on Green Enterprise 4. New jobs are being created, others sustained and still others diversified as Irish enterprises develop innovative, resource efficient processes, goods and services in this fast expanding global market. Many companies are also engaged in resource and energy efficiency initiatives, with resulting improvements in their cost competitiveness. Comprehensive data gathering on the Green Economy in Ireland is problematic because of the breadth of the sectors it covers. Nonetheless, the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) estimated that 18,750 were employed in six key sub-sectors of the Green Economy in This baseline is a conservative estimate derived from employment in Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland client companies, the National Retrofit Programme and large semi-state companies. It does not include other key sectors where Green Economy activity is strongly emerging, such as Financial Services, Agriculture and Marine, and Tourism. The value of sales of low carbon environmental goods and services in and from Ireland was estimated at 6.8 billion in 2010/11 6, contributing over 4% to GDP. A number of Irish companies are to the forefront in developing innovative cleantech products in areas such as insulation materials, efficient heating equipment, energy management systems and energy efficient lighting. They have met with 4 Developing the Green Economy in Ireland, High Level Group on Green Enterprise, These sub-sectors are: Renewable Energies; Efficient Energy Use and Management; Water and Waste Water Treatment; Waste Management, Recovery and Recycling; Environmental Consultancy and Services; and Green ICT Applications/ Software. 6 Underlying data for UK Low Carbon Environmental Goods and Services (LCEGS), Dept Business, Innovation and Skills Page 7

11 notable success in exporting their offerings to major international markets in the US and the Middle East. Allied to this, Ireland is at the leading edge in relation to research in a number of areas which complement the Green Economy, including agri-food, ocean energy, smart grids and smart city technologies. There is considerable potential for future job creation in the Green Economy in Ireland. The EGFSN report from estimated that up to 10,000 extra jobs could be created in six sub-sectors of the Green Economy alone by 2015 if substantive progress is made in addressing key policy challenges impacting on the development of these sectors. Importantly, companies in the Green Economy are not concentrated in any one location in Ireland and there is significant potential for on-going regional dispersal of activity as the sector grows. It is clear that the value of the Green Economy, both globally and nationally, is set to increase significantly over the coming years and Ireland can benefit from this upward trajectory. Indigenous and international investors have shown a strong interest in being part of this important and dynamic sector, which will be an engine for future job creation and economic growth. Government s commitment to developing the Green Economy The Government is committed to developing the potential of the Green Economy in Ireland to support sustainable economic growth and create jobs. We are already implementing a number of strategies and programmes to support individual sectors in the Green Economy. These include the Strategy for Renewable Energy , the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan, the Framework for Sustainable Development for Ireland, a new National Waste Policy and the Green Public Procurement Action Plan. Further policy approaches are being developed under specific sectoral headings, as outlined in this Policy Statement. Implementing these strategies is an integral part of developing the Green Economy in Ireland. Appendix 1 summaries the key initiatives across the various sectors that make up the Green Economy in Ireland. The Government also provides a range of supports to the enterprise sector through its agencies, in particular the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland. These supports comprise expert advice to enterprises of all sizes on adopting an environmentally sustainable and resource-efficient approach to their business, and on how to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the increasing demand from consumers and clients for green and sustainable products and services. The work of the agencies also enhances the competitiveness of Irish industry and multinational companies based in Ireland by helping reduce costs and usage of energy, water and materials. A range of grants is also available to support business in these areas. Appendix 2 summarises the supports available to businesses in Ireland to develop their green offering. In addition, the Government s continued investment in research and development is building the longer term foundations for continued innovation in green products and services, particularly in energy, marine and agriculture, as recommended by the Research Prioritisation Steering Group. As set out over the following pages, the Government will develop the potential of the Green Economy across a range of sectors in a way that respects the environment and the biodiversity that underpins our international image as a Green island. We will use our resources and our strengths wisely, with supportive Government policies, to enable the Green Economy to develop in Ireland with consequent gains for our exports and for job creation. We will also continue to work with business across the range of green opportunities to understand and address obstacles to growth and to employment creation, through enhanced delivery structures. 7 Future Skills Needs of Enterprise within the Green Economy in Ireland, EGFSN, 2010 Page 8

12 Structures for delivery The Green Economy in Ireland is highly diversified across a range of sectors. We have key strengths that surpass those of many other countries, which put us in a strong position to capture the economic and employment opportunities afforded by the global growth of the Green Economy. Responsibility for the development of the green potential of individual sectors such as Renewable Energy, Agri-food, Tourism, etc., will continue to be driven by the relevant Government Ministers as part of their policy remit. However, delivering the individual commitments which are outlined in this Policy Statement requires a whole-of-government approach to maximise the growth and employment potential of the Green Economy. The development of the Green Economy in Ireland will therefore be overseen by the Cabinet Committee on Climate Change and the Green Economy, which is chaired by the Taoiseach. In addition, the Government will establish a Consultative Committee on the Green Economy, which will be chaired by the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, to identify emerging opportunities for Ireland in the Green Economy. The Consultative Committee will involve representatives from the enterprise sector as well as other key stakeholders, including relevant Government Departments and agencies, as part of its remit. Opportunities identified by the Consultative Committee - as well as enablers and barriers to be addressed - will be examined with a view to their inclusion in the Action Plan for Jobs in 2013 and subsequent years. The Consultative Committee will dovetail with and complement the Government s High Level Group on Sustainable Development, ensuring synergy and complementarity between the development of the Green Economy and Sustainable Development. Page 9

13 Renewable Energy Ireland has exceptional renewable energy resources in its wind and oceans. The quality and reliability of these resources compared to other European countries gives us a distinct advantage in developing the potential of this sector. The development of renewable energy is central to overall energy policy in Ireland. Renewable energy lessens our dependence on fossil fuels, improves security of supply and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Ireland has binding EU targets in place to deliver 16% of its overall energy from renewable sources by Within this overall target, 40% of our electricity will be met from renewables. These targets will be met. However, in the longer-term, it is clear that there will be a significant increase in renewable energy deployment in Europe over and above the 2020 target levels. Developing the sector will produce environmental benefits for Ireland, and will also contribute to economic growth and employment. For example, the strategic deployment of onshore wind projects can help to develop a base of indigenous and multi-national companies and create employment in areas such as wind farm assembly, manufacturing, services (including ICT) and supply chain opportunities. Ireland can also become a global leader in research, development and testing of renewable energy and related technologies, including Smart Grids. Ireland has a number of particular strengths to support the development of these areas, including excellent renewable energy resources, engineering and ICT skills, and a strong R&D base. In May 2012, the Government published its Strategy for Renewable Energy , setting out specific actions which it will take to further develop wind energy, ocean energy, bioenergy, R&D, sustainable transport energy, and the supporting energy infrastructure. The delivery of the Strategy for Renewable Energy will be a key element in developing the Green Economy in Ireland and will require a cohesive approach across Government, enterprise and other key stakeholders. Page 10

14 Wind energy Ireland has exceptional renewable energy resources in its wind. The quality and reliability of Ireland s wind resource compared to other European countries gives us a distinct advantage in developing the potential of this sector. Our renewable energy resources have the capacity to deliver many multiples of the energy required by the domestic market. This offers potential for Ireland to export electricity generated from renewable sources to the UK and beyond, to help other EU Member States meet their renewable energy targets. It also makes Ireland an attractive location for those interested in researching, testing or investing in renewable energy. The Government supports the production of domestic wind energy through Renewable Energy Feed-In Tariffs (REFIT) and has a structured process for the further development of wind energy locations and their feed-in to the national electricity grid. Ultimately, renewable electricity generation should, at a future point, be able to function in the market as a fully cost-competitive technology. The Government is committed to working with the UK Government, under the auspices of the British Irish Council, and with the European Commission and Member States in the context of the North Seas Offshore Grid Initiative, to create the framework and conditions for renewable energy export. A significant development in this regard is the opening of the East West Interconnector with the UK which allows electricity to be traded between the two islands. The Government is committed to continuing the necessary analysis to inform decisions on further potential interconnectors with the UK and with France. The Government also recognises the possibilities for onshore wind projects of significant scale, which may, in time, offer the potential for export of renewable energy to the UK market directly. As outlined in the Strategy for Renewable Energy, the Government is committed to reviewing the scope for further streamlining the authorisation and planning processes for renewable energy projects. Provided the Cost Benefit Analysis is positive, we will put in place the necessary legal, planning and infrastructure framework to support the development of onshore and offshore wind as an export opportunity, without cost to the Irish consumer and to the benefit of the economy. Ocean energy The commercial and technical feasibility of wave energy technology still requires a considerable level of research. However, the Government is committed to realising the long term economic potential of Ireland s wave and tidal resources with the objective of introducing ocean energy into the renewables portfolio over time. Irish projects have been to the forefront in developing some very promising wave technology devices. In capitalising on our significant ocean energy resources, our strong existing company base and our research institutions, Ireland can become a global leader in ocean research and development and in the manufacture and use of ocean energy systems. This could lead to significant export and employment opportunities in the medium-term. Key supply chain opportunities which will arise in the ocean energy sector include wave/ tidal converter technology, foundations and moorings, electrical connection, installation, data management systems and Operation & Management processes. Bioenergy In 2012, the Government announced a REFIT scheme for biomass technologies. This announcement marked an important step in providing certainty for the sector. The REFIT scheme will critically underpin the Bioenergy crops grant programme operated by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, while the development of Anaerobic Digestion will assist in usefully disposing of agricultural waste products. The Government will publish a comprehensive National Bioenergy Strategy to underpin the sustainable growth of biomass/biofuel use in the heat sector as well as in power generation and transport. The development of biomass energy will encourage the establishment of new rural enterprises and support job creation in the regions. Page 11

15 Grid development The growth of renewable energy and wind, in particular, requires the modernisation and expansion of the electricity grid. Ireland, in common with many EU Member States, is undertaking significant investment in the transmission system in support of renewable energy as well as in support of regional economic development. In addition to investing in infrastructure, it is necessary to adapt the grid to operate in a smarter manner. A smarter grid involves the use of information and communication technologies in the transmission and distribution systems in order to accommodate large amounts of intermittent renewable energy and to facilitate the management of demand. Countries worldwide are investing huge sums of money to upgrade their grids 8. This is translating into a significant global business opportunity. Ireland has important strengths and a potential first-mover advantage through the work of EirGrid in identifying and overcoming the operational challenges inherent in managing high levels of intermittent wind. We also have a large base of multinational and indigenous ICT companies active in this area. Ireland is also a natural test-bed for the early deployment of the Smart Grid concept, as it has a single electricity market, one transmission system operator (EirGrid) and one distribution system operator (ESB Networks) and a strong underpinning research capacity. This simplifies the speed at which the roll-out of new technologies can be achieved. These factors are combining to create an opportunity for Ireland to gain first mover advantage and become a major research player in Smart Grids. It also affords Irish-based companies opportunities to generate new leading-edge products and services. To develop the potential of this sector in the Green Economy, the Government will: Implement its Strategy for Renewable Energy through a whole of Government approach, and, in particular, will: Provide REFIT supports for on-shore wind, small hydro and biomass. Ensure that, on average, at least 200MW of new renewable generation is being connected per annum to the grid. Work to overcome the existing obstacles and delays in the GATE processes for renewable energy projects, including environmental, permitting and any emerging regulatory barriers. Ensure that the regulatory environment for renewable energy projects in the electricity market is appropriate, predictable and in line with EU requirements. Introduce legislation to provide for a new offshore licensing and permitting regime. Review the scope for further streamlining authorisation and planning processes for renewable energy projects. Work with UK to deliver an intergovernmental agreement which will underpin cross-border trade in renewable energy between the two economies. Work with our partners in the North Seas Offshore Grid Initiative to deliver the framework and infrastructure to support the development of the North Seas trade in offshore wind. Finalise and publish the Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan. Continue to support the development of the electricity grid to facilitate the use of renewable energies and support the development of Smart technologies to underpin the grid investment. Seek out supply chain opportunities for Irish-based companies through Enterprise Ireland. Publish a new National Bioenergy Strategy. Continue to examine the potential for the development of renewable energy technologies, including solar, geothermal and electricity storage. 8 For example, the US Electric Power Research Institute estimates the cost of upgrading US utilities alone to be $165bn over two decades. Page 12

16 Energy Efficiency and Resource Efficiency Energy efficiency can play a vital role in reducing the cost of energy for business and domestic consumers. It lessens carbon emissions and decreases our dependence on fossil fuels, thereby improving our competitiveness and sustaining jobs. Achieving greater efficiency in resource inputs and minimising waste also improves productivity and reduces costs. Improving Ireland s energy efficiency is a fundamental part of Ireland s energy policy. The Government has committed to achieving, by 2020, a 20% reduction in energy demand across the whole of the economy through energy efficiency measures. Energy efficiency can significantly reduce the cost of energy for business and domestic consumers, lessening carbon emissions, decreasing our dependence on fossil fuels and sustaining jobs. For example, it is estimated that most businesses who have not yet addressed the issue of energy efficiency can reduce their costs by 20% for little or no outlay, providing a significant boost to their competitiveness. Internationally, energy efficiency is recognised as the most cost-effective means of reducing dependence on fossil fuels. In response to global demand to improve energy performance, a number of Irish companies are to the forefront in developing, testing and manufacturing new products that improve energy efficiency, including insulation materials, heat and ground pumps, and innovative energy storage units. Energy management systems also play a key role in improving energy efficiency and this is also an area where Irish companies are at the leading edge. As demand expands in significant export markets, such as the UK and Europe, Irish companies can capitalise on their competitive strengths in this area by selling new energy efficient products and technologies into those markets. There is also significant scope for employment growth in the retrofitting of residential, commercial and public buildings, both domestically and in overseas markets. Page 13

17 National Energy Efficiency Action Plan Ireland s first National Energy Efficiency Action Plan was published in May 2009 and set out 90 actions that are already taking place, or will take place, to achieve the 20% energy efficiency savings in the period to 2020 across the public, business, residential, transport, and energy supply sectors. The savings identified in the first Action Plan represent approximately 1.6 billion in annual energy cost reductions for the economy in Since the publication of the first Action Plan, several new policy measures have been taken to strengthen and deepen our energy savings efforts. Moreover, the European Union policy context is evolving, and the publication of an EU Energy 2020 strategy places even greater emphasis on the role of energy efficiency to achieve our 2020 targets. The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources is currently preparing an updated National Energy Efficiency Action Plan in response to these developments. The new National Energy Efficiency Action Plan will set out the Government s ambitions to deliver further energy savings over the period to Buildings Recognising that Government must lead by example, we are committed to achieving a 33% reduction in public sector energy use by In addition, the new EU Energy Efficiency Directive contains targets to upgrade the energy efficiency of 3% of Government buildings every year. The Directive will also impose an obligation on energy companies to help their customers save energy through measures such as building insulation and energy efficient appliances. These targets and objectives will result in significant cost-savings, but they can also generate significant employment opportunities for Irish-based companies by creating demand for high-quality Irish made products in areas such as insulation, heating systems and energy management. The Government s Green Public Procurement Action Plan - Green Tenders -(see Section on Green Products and Services) will also support the demand for these goods and services. In May 2011, the Government launched the Better Energy programme, with the aim of supporting the energy efficiency upgrades of one million homes, businesses and public buildings. Better Energy consolidated three previous energy efficiency and renewable energy programmes: the Home Energy Savings scheme, the Warmer Homes Scheme and the Greener Homes Scheme. Over 200,000 homes have been upgraded with energy efficiency measures to date. The Better Energy scheme supports around 5,500 jobs in the economy and has allowed many construction workers to diversify into this new service. In 2012, the Government will invest 76 million in the Better Energy scheme. The Programme for Government includes a commitment to introduce a Pay As You Save (PAYS) scheme to replace the Better Energy scheme from The PAYS scheme will further support households to invest in energy efficiency measures which will yield tangible reductions in their energy bills. The savings generated for homeowners will allow them to finance the cost of the energy efficiency improvements. The Government will also examine the potential for a strand of the PAYS scheme to support the commercial and public sectors in energy efficiency measures from Industry Energy efficiency and the development of innovative solutions to energy challenges is of critical importance for all companies. Government agencies, notably the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Enterprise Ireland, are working with businesses of all sizes to enable them to be more competitive through increased energy efficiency and the development of innovative energy solutions. The supports provided by the agencies range from the provision of expert advice and assistance through to grants for research, development and innovation. The Government also provides an Accelerated Capital Allowance scheme, which provides tax incentives to companies that purchase energy-efficient equipment. Page 14

18 Smart Meters Smart meters will have an important role to play in helping both homes and industry to manage their energy consumption more efficiently. Smart meters are the next generation of electricity meters. They work by monitoring and recording the amount of electricity used and when it is used, capturing patterns of energy usage throughout the day. In turn, householders learn how much energy they are using for different appliances and how to reduce costs. In collaboration with the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) and the SEAI, the ESB conducted a pilot programme on the use of domestic Smart Meters during 2009 and 2010, with over 5,000 Irish homes and businesses participating. The purpose of the trials was to assess the performance of Smart Meters, their impact on customers electricity consumption and the economic case for a wider national rollout. The results of the Smart Meter Trials published by the CER in May 2012 indicated that Irish customers responded very positively to Smart Meters, reducing their electricity consumption and bills. Resource Efficiency Resource efficiency means using the Earth s limited resources in a sustainable manner. We depend on natural resources for our survival but they are also vital inputs to keep our economy functioning. Increased resource efficiency improves productivity, drives down costs and boosts competitiveness. It is a key component in the EU s Europe 2020 Strategy to achieve smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. To improve resource efficiency, we need to develop new products and services and find new ways to reduce inputs, minimise waste and improve production processes. Resource efficiency will help stimulate technological innovation, boost employment in the fast developing green technology sector, open up new export markets and benefit consumers through more sustainable products. The SEAI, the EPA, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland provide a range of supports for business and institutions in the development and implementation of resource-efficient practices. Support and assistance is tailored to each client, whether a large or small enterprise, a multi-national or a public institution. To develop the potential of this sector in the Green Economy, the Government will: Publish a second National Energy Efficiency Action Plan. Continue to support energy efficiency improvements in homes through the Better Energy scheme up to the end of Introduce a Pay As You Save (PAYS) scheme to replace the Better Energy Homes scheme from 2014, and a strand of the PAYS scheme to improve energy efficiency in the public and commercial sectors in Raise public awareness of the benefits of improved energy efficiency through advertising campaigns. Continue to provide supports to business to improve their energy and resource efficiency and manage their costs through the SEAI, EPA and Enterprise Ireland. Introduce an Energy Framework for the Public Service which will further improve the level of energy consumption by the sector. Continue research into energy efficiency measures as set out in the R,D & I Section of this Policy Statement. Page 15

19 Green Products and Services The global demand for new products, services, technologies and solutions in the Green Economy provides significant employment opportunities for Ireland. A large number of Irish companies are developing innovative products which are finding markets in the Green Economy. Many of these companies are already successfully exporting their green goods and services overseas, and employ over 6,000 people in the process. The high cost of energy, the finite supply of traditional raw materials and clean water, the setting of international emissions reduction targets, and the increasing demand from consumers for sustainable goods, are all driving a global demand for new products, services, technologies and solutions in the Green Economy. Governments in key export markets for Ireland, such as the UK and France, are developing policies to drive improved energy efficiency. Some countries have introduced environmentally-related taxes such as carbon levies which, along with the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, are encouraging industry to become more resource and energy efficient. Companies world-wide are also becoming increasingly aware of the financial savings and competitive advantage that arise from adopting an environmentally sustainable and resource-efficient approach to their business. These advantages include lower overhead costs for materials, energy, water, and waste management, and enhanced corporate profile in the community. All of these factors are opening commercial opportunities for companies that can supply businesses and economies with resource-efficient solutions and products. It is an area that provides significant employment opportunities for Ireland. A large number of Irish companies are developing innovative products which are finding markets in the Green Economy. Many of these companies are successfully exporting their green goods and services overseas. Enterprise Ireland alone has a directory of 240 export-oriented Cleantech companies, employing almost 6,000 people, on its website 9. 9 See Directory-Aug-2010.pdf Page 16

20 These products and services include energy efficiency equipment and materials such as insulation, thermal efficient glazing, lighting solutions, intelligent heating controls, energy meters, and related services such as data management, analytics and maintenance. Other areas that offer potential for Irish companies include technologies such as solar panels, ground source heat pumps, small scale wind turbines, as well as services such as design, engineering, installation, Operations & Management, and monitoring of energy efficiency. In addition, there are significant commercial opportunities for businesses in the areas of water conservation, and waste re-use, recovery and recycling. Green Tenders, the Government s Green Public Procurement Action Plan (see below), the Better Energy retrofitting scheme and the forthcoming roll out of the domestic water metering programme will support the further development of green products and services and related jobs. There is also an opportunity for Ireland to develop a number of demonstration sites for new products and services through these programmes, which can attract multi-national partners, be commercialised and exported by innovative Irish companies. Green Public Procurement Public bodies are major consumers of goods and services, spending some 14 billion annually through their procurement budgets. This represents 10% to 12% of Ireland s GDP. Given the scale of the State s overall expenditure on public procurement, the choices which public bodies make in selecting goods and services can have a positive impact in stimulating demand for green products and services in Ireland and in supporting jobs. By choosing products and services which have reduced environmental impacts, public bodies can make an important contribution to promoting a market for sustainable offerings. Green Public Procurement can be a major driver for innovation, providing industry with real incentives to develop green products and services particularly in sectors where public purchasers represent a large share of the market, such as construction, health services and public transport. The Government s Action Plan on Green Public Procurement - Green Tenders - which was published in 2012, provides the framework for the procurement of more sustainable goods and services in eight priority areas. Irish firms have strengths in a number of the key priority areas, such as Construction, Energy, Food and ICT. There is a significant opportunity for Irish firms to innovate and, through winning tenders in Ireland, generate knock-on opportunities in global export markets. The integration of green principles into public procurement will further enhance Ireland s reputation as an innovative, eco-efficient, and forward-looking place to do business and will complement the Government s wider sustainable development objectives. Green Clusters The growth of the Green Economy on a global scale over the last decade or so has seen the emergence in a number of countries of clusters involving enterprises and institutions with common objectives in relation to the Green Economy. The concept of clusters is well established in Ireland. Ireland already has internationally successful clusters in the areas of biopharma, medical devices, ICT and financial services. A number of clusters have also emerged in relation to the Green Economy. These clusters provide opportunities for collaboration between a range of parties with the knowledge, expertise and experience to maximise the development of opportunities in the Green Economy. They serve to stimulate private sector innovation and investment and can act as test beds for new products and services in areas such as renewable energy, energy and resource efficiency and other cleantech activities. Clusters also have the potential to forge international links with like-minded parties abroad and to access new markets for Irish goods, services and research opportunities, as well as to attract foreign direct investment. The establishment of these clusters can therefore help position Ireland as a global innovative clean-tech hub, attracting high quality jobs to Ireland and creating a vibrant community of innovative businesses. Page 17

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